Trusted VAT Experts for UK Businesses
VAT is complex. Mistakes cost money, time, and reputation. Our accountants deliver VAT advice to help you meet HMRC rules, reclaim VAT where possible and keep your business efficient.
Why Choose David Howard for VAT Services?
Stay complaint with VAT. We prepare and file accurate VAT returns, track payment deadlines, and make sure you meet HMRC rules
Maximise VAT efficiency. We identify reclaim opportunities, recommend the right VAT scheme, and reduce penalty risks.
Strategic VAT guidance. We advise on registration and complex VAT issues to protect your business and support growth.
Making Tax Digital Compliance. We set up approved accounting software and ensure your VAT submissions meet HMRC’s MTD rules.
Integrated tax planning. We link VAT advice with corporation tax, PAYE, and other UK tax obligations to give you a joined-up approach.
Tailored to your business. Our VAT specialists adjust their support to fit your sector, size, and trading model.
Partial exemption advice. We help businesses that supply both taxable and exempt goods or services calculate and recover the correct VAT.
Accurate VAT record-keeping. We set up systems for invoices, expenses, and digital records to keep your VAT returns correct and compliant.
Our VAT Services
We offer a complete range of VAT services for UK businesses:
VAT registration and de-registration
Preparation and submission of VAT returns
Regular updates on VAT payable dates and compliance changes
HMRC dispute resolution and VAT investigations
VAT planning and optimisation for better cash flow
Advice on partial exemption and sector-specific VAT challenges
Experience that Spans Decades
Our clients share why they continue to trust us with their business
Joe Wood
Director, Knowledge Garden Limited
I selected David Howard to act as my accountants for my start up business based on their web site and their prompt response to my inquiry. During the first meeting the knowledge, the technology and professionalism of the partner confirmed my opinion that they would be the right accountants for me.
Helen Francis
Director, World’s End Interiors Limited
David Howard were recommended to us by our financial adviser after we had a difficult time with our previous accountants. From the outset, we were impressed by their professionalism, efficiency and breadth of knowledge. We get on with our business, knowing that our accounts and book-keeping are in very safe hands with the team at David Howard.
Trish Carver
Director, Sims4Training Limited
We have recently moved to David Howard, about a year ago. Quite frankly, I wish I’d made the move years ago. They are helpful, friendly and jargon free. it’s made a world of difference to our ability to forecast and I feel we have much better control of the business. I am happy to recommend them.
Start-ups
VAT can feel daunting when you’re just getting a business off the ground. The biggest question is when and how to register. Our VAT advice helps you understand the £90,000 threshold, whether voluntary registration makes sense, and which scheme will keep admin simple without increasing costs.
We provide support with:
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Deciding when registration is required or beneficial
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Choosing between the Flat Rate and standard schemes
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Setting up digital record-keeping to meet HMRC rules
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Avoiding common VAT errors that new businesses make
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Understanding how VAT fits into wider tax obligations
VAT in construction has unique challenges, from the domestic reverse charge to CIS interaction. Errors here are common and can be costly. Our VAT advice keeps your returns compliant and your records in order.
We provide support with:
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Applying the domestic reverse charge correctly on invoices
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VAT registration and ongoing compliance for contractors and subcontractors
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Record-keeping that aligns VAT with CIS reporting
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Responding to HMRC queries or disputes
In retail and hospitality, VAT often comes down to applying the right rate on the right item. We help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your systems compliant.
We provide support with:
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VAT treatment of food, drink, and accommodation
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Handling tips, service charges, and staff incentives
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Correct use of reduced and zero-rated items
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VAT record-keeping for point-of-sale systems
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Reclaiming input VAT on common sector costs
Law firms, consultancies, and agencies often deal with complex expenses and recharges. Our VAT advice ensures you treat them correctly and keep records ready for HMRC.
We provide support with:
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Deciding when VAT applies to disbursements and recharges
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Input VAT recovery on client-related expenses
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Maintaining digital records under Making Tax Digital
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Preparing accurate VAT returns to avoid penalties
Charities face VAT rules that mix exempt, zero-rated, and standard-rated activities. Our VAT advice ensures you meet HMRC requirements and claim reliefs where possible.
We provide support with:
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Applying VAT correctly to fundraising and trading activities
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Partial exemption calculations for mixed income
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Claiming available VAT reliefs
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Preparing for and managing HMRC reviews
Try Our Free VAT Calculator
Quickly calculate your VAT obligations and ensure your business stays compliant with our free, easy-to-use VAT Calculator for UK businesses.
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Get Expert VAT Advice Today
David Howard’s VAT specialists and accountants are ready to guide your business through all VAT requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register for VAT?
Register online with HMRC when your turnover exceeds £90,000. You’ll need business details, turnover figures, and a bank account. HMRC will issue your VAT certificate and number.
- Sign in to HMRC using your Government Gateway account.
- Select “Register for VAT” and enter your business details.
- Provide turnover figures, business activity, and bank account information.
- Submit the application and wait for HMRC to issue your VAT registration certificate.
- Receive your VAT number, start date, and filing deadlines by email or post
What are VAT payable dates?
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Quarterly returns (standard scheme): Most businesses file and pay VAT every three months. The deadline is one month and seven days after the end of your VAT period. For example, if your VAT quarter ends on 31 March, your return and payment are due by 7 May.
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Monthly returns: Some businesses with regular VAT repayments, such as exporters, file monthly to improve cash flow. The same one month and seven day rule applies.
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Annual Accounting Scheme: Instead of four returns, you make advance payments towards your VAT bill and file one return a year. The deadline is two months after the end of your annual period.
How do I submit a VAT return accurately?
Use HMRC-approved MTD software, keep complete digital records, and reconcile sales, purchases, and VAT figures before submitting by the deadline.
Key steps:
- Record all sales and purchases.
- Track input VAT on expenses and output VAT on sales.
- Reconcile figures with your accounting records.
- Use compatible software to file directly to HMRC.
- Submit by the deadline stated on your VAT return.
What are common VAT penalties and how can I avoid them?
HMRC applies penalties in several areas:
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Late submission: If you miss the deadline for filing VAT returns, HMRC applies a points-based penalty system. Repeated late filings can lead to a £200 fine.
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Late payment: Interest accrues from the day the payment is overdue. Additional penalties apply if VAT is more than 15 or 30 days late.
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Inaccurate returns: Errors on returns that understate VAT or overclaim repayments can bring penalties of 0–100% of the VAT due, depending on whether HMRC views the mistake as careless or deliberate.
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Failure to keep records: Businesses must keep digital records under Making Tax Digital. Missing or incomplete records can lead to penalties.
How to avoid penalties:
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Keep complete and accurate digital records of sales and purchases.
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Use HMRC-approved accounting software for Making Tax Digital submissions.
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Reconcile figures regularly to spot mistakes before filing.
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File returns and make payments well before the deadline.
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Correct any errors promptly and disclose them to HMRC to reduce potential penalties.
When is VAT registration mandatory?
When taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in a rolling 12-month period, or if you expect it to do so within 30 days.
Read more
VAT applies to most goods and services in the UK. The VAT registration threshold in 2025 is £90,000 in taxable turnover.
Common VAT Schemes
- Standard VAT – 20% rate on most goods and services
- Flat Rate VAT – simplified scheme for small businesses
- Cash Accounting VAT – pay VAT on receipts, not invoices
- Annual Accounting VAT – one return a year with interim payments
We advise on the right scheme for your business.
Why VAT Compliance Matters
Breaking VAT rules risks:
- HMRC penalties and surcharges
- Interest on late payments
- Reputational damage
Our VAT advice ensures your records, submissions, and payments are correct and on time.
VAT Registration
VAT registration is mandatory when turnover exceeds £90,000 in a 12-month period, or if you expect it to do so within 30 days.
Voluntary registration can also improve credibility and allow VAT recovery on expenses.
We provide VAT advice on registration, de-registration, and overseas VAT rules.
VAT Returns
VAT returns must be filed digitally under Making Tax Digital (MTD).
Our VAT advice covers:
- Record-keeping in approved accounting software
- Accurate calculation of input and output VAT
- Filing direct to HMRC to meet deadlines
Tips for Accurate VAT Return Submission
Common errors include omitting invoices, miscalculating VAT, or mixing schemes. Using experienced vat accountants ensures accuracy, reducing the risk of fines and delays.
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